The man nicknamed 'God' by Villa fans took to Instagram to share a rousing video message, although his maths left a bit to be desired.

"Just a quick message to the Villa fans, the management and especially the players," said McGrath.

"We need this result tonight, we're playing Preston at home.

"Get back to winning ways. We need the three points.

"That will be 27 points out of nine games I believe if I've done my maths right.

"Hashtag Up The Villa. We can do it lads, be brilliant!"

In actual fact Villa will have 24 points from a possible 27 if they beat Alex Neil's men tonight, having won seven and lost one of their last nine matches.

Not that claret and blue fans on social media were concerned about a minor miscalculation when it comes from such a Villa Par favourite.

Here's what supporters said:

welshinhoMaths: Obviously not a strong point big dog, who needs maths tho when you're a legend

dangvw: Legend, now go do it lads don’t let God down !

donsparky74: You’d better do as he says!!!!!!!!

garywalls: Take note GOD has spoken!!

OPPOSITION VERDICT

Preston North End manager Alex Neil knows his side will face a different type of challenge at Villa Park tonight, to the one that held league leaders Wolves on Saturday.

The Lilywhites took the lead through Alan Browne at Deepdale against Nuno Espirito Santo’s Wanderers, before they were pegged back with ten men by Helder Costa.

Now North End, who still harbour play-off ambitions of their own while they sit just three points outside of the top six, travel to take on Steve Bruce’s claret and blues who suffered a first league defeat in eight at high-flying Fulham on Saturday.